A member of the Canadian Armed Forces on a mission in Latvia has died, the Department of National Defence announced on Friday.
Gunner Sebastian Halmagean, who was employed by the Canadian-led NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia and deployed as part of Operation Reassurance was killed on January 29, 2026. The circumstances surrounding his death have not been revealed, and the Canadian Armed Forces said further details would not be provided in order to protect the integrity of the ongoing police investigation.
Canadian military officials say the investigation into Halmagean’s death is being led by the Latvian Military Police with support from the Canadian Forces Military Police. They add that there is no indication that this incident poses an increased threat to the safety and security of its deployed members.
“The passing of Gunner Halmagean is a loss deeply felt for the Canadian Armed Forces,” said General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff. “Gunner Halmagean was at the beginning of a promising career, and we will remember his dedication and commitment to service. Our thoughts are with all who knew him during this profoundly difficult time.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his condolences to Halmagean’s family, saying in a social media post that “Our country is stronger for his service.”
Gunner Halmagean, originally from Hamilton, Ont., was posted to the 4th Artillery Regiment (General Support), Royal Canadian Artillery, part of 6 Canadian Combat Support Brigade, which is based at 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in Oromocto, N.B.
Gunner Halmagean was deployed on Operation Reassurance as part of the Air Defence Battery within the Multinational Artillery Battalion Group at NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia. He had served in the Canadian Armed Forces for nearly three years. This was his first overseas deployment.
A social media post from a man saying he was Halmagean’s father, with photos of the soldier attached, said he’d helped extinguish fires in Newfoundland and Labrador last year. The post said Halmagean was “immensely proud to serve in the Canadian Armed Forces and his country.”
The post asked for privacy while the family deals with the news.
Latvia is home to a multinational deployment of troops meant to deter Russian aggression in Europe’s eastern flank. It is one of several NATO battle brigades deployed in eastern Europe.
Canada is the lead nation in the Latvia deployment, with roughly 2,000 troops deployed.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced in August that he’s extending Operation Reassurance for another three years through to 2029.
Files from The Canadian Press were used in this report